Roman Glass Stepped Unguentarium

Decorated with a high-relief pattern comprising sphinxes surrounded by dolphins and masks of Medusa surrounded by laurel leaves all between Corinthian columns; ropework and floral border strips with laurel leaves above; lip below the upper edge. 20.1 kg, 101.5 cm



Acquired 1970s-early 1990s. Property of a North American collector. London collection, 2016.

This item belongs to types widespread in the Eastern Mediterranean. The panel is decorated with a columned structure, and within each section are symbols of the outer-world, including gorgons, sphinx and dolphins. The sphinx, having a human head and breasts, legs and paws of a lion, and wings of a bird, was generally associated with protecting imperial tombs and temples. The roundels featuring the head of Medusa, known for her potent gazes that could turn one to stone, was favoured on sarcophagi and architectural ornaments because it was believed that her image would protect those within. The dolphin was considered to ferry the souls of the dead to the afterlife.

With a long canal nozzle with volutes, discus with one filling hole and three concentric lines enclosing a central scene of Leda and the swan, softly rendered anatomical details and carefully modelled plumage; two old stickers to base. 74 grams, 11.7 cm



From the collection of Arno Jumpertz, Leverkusen, Germany, 1924-1984; much of the collection was exhibited at the Neus Museum, 1985. Accompanied by a previous catalogue information slip.

The lamp's style refers to the Loeschcke type I, a style popular during the Augustan and Imperial times.

Comprising a crescentic pendant with keeled arms, applied suspension loop. 2.42 grams, 29 mm



Acquired before 1980. Ex property of a South London collector.